ABSTRACT
Objectives: This study examined gender and regional differences in health expectancies based on measures of mobility limitation in the older Thai.
Methods: Health expectancies were computed using Sullivan’s method using the fourth Thai National Health Examination Survey in 2009. Participants were defined as having mobility limitation if they reported inability to do without assistances/aids at least one of: walking at least 400 metres; or going up or down a flight of 10 stairs. 9,210 participants aged 60+ years were included.
Results: Females spent significantly fewer years without mobility limitation (3.2 years difference at age 60) and more years with limitation than males (6.7 years difference at age 60). Significant regional inequalities in years lived without and with limitation were evident, with a consistent pattern across genders although regional differences were smaller than gender differences.
Conclusion: This study identifies inequalities in years with and without mobility limitations, with important policy implication
Moderator: Piyawat Katewongsa
June 10, 2015 Time: 12:30 – 13:30 hrs. Room Srabua 109
